English as a Second Language

Welcome to English as a Second Language

Program Description

This series of courses is designed to aid the resident and international student,
for whom English is a second or foreign language, to master basic communication skills
necessary to make reasonable progress in an American community college environment.
Students do not need to take the TOEFL and can enroll in regular college courses after
studying English. This program offers courses for beginning to advanced students.

Assessment/Advisement

All new students take an assessment test which places them in the courses appropriate
to their abilities.

Proof of Completion

Students who successfully complete Level 5 Reading and Writing will be awarded a document
stating that they have completed the ESL program at SBCC. Students may also earn this
proof of completion by successfully finishing at least one four-unit ESL course and
passing the college's English assessment test.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

1. Listen to spoken English, understand intended meaning and respond appropriately.2. Speak in English on a diversity of topics in a way that is intelligible to the
listener.3. Read, comprehend and apply one’s own thinking to a wide range of English texts.
4. Write both narrative and expository papers which fit the intended purpose and audience.5. Increase both receptive and productive knowledge of English vocabulary.6. Use appropriate and generally correct grammar, spelling and punctuation when communicating
in English.7. Analyze new information and ideas and contribute original thought to discussions
regarding these.8. Use word-processing programs, language learning software, the Internet and keyboarding
skills to facilitate language development.